March 7, 2014

Fans of Harry Potter, music, and reading are invited to the Hallows and Horcruxes Ball 7: A Wizard Rock Concert for Literacy.

Inspired by J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, the concert is from 7-11:30 p.m. Saturday, March 8, in the K-State Alumni Center. Doors will open at 6 p.m.

This year's performers include Alex Carpenter, Ministry of Magic, Tonks and the Aurors, Draco and the Malfoys, Lauren Fairweather, Justin Finch-Fletchley and the Sugar Quills, The Whomping Willows, and Seen and Unforeseen.

"Wizard rock remains a popular way for fans to express their love for the world Rowling has created, even though the series itself has ended," said Karin Westman, head of the K-State department of English. "Wizard rock celebrates reading, but it also celebrates the themes of Rowling's series, which include the importance of community, literacy and social justice."

The wizard rock movement has raised tens of thousands of dollars for charity through its recordings and performances, Westman said.

Saturday's concert benefits First Book, a nonprofit organization that provides disadvantaged children with books, with funds once again targeting the local First Book advisory board of Geary County. Westman said last year's event raised $1,200 for the cause.

"The English department is happy to join with other organizations on campus to support this seventh and final concert," she said.

Event sponsors include K-State's Harry Potter Alliance, the Children's and Adolescent Literature Community, the department of English, the Student Governing Association, the Union Program Council, the LGBT Resource Center, and the Manhattan Music Coalition.

Tickets to the Hallows and Horcruxes Ball are free to K-State students with a valid ID and $12 for the general public. Tickets are available from the department of English, Room 108 in the English/Counseling Services Building, during business hours or by ordering online. More information about the concert is available at the Facebook event page.